Stepping Away from Pain: A Closer Look at Morton's Neuroma with Dr. Kaveh Panahi

Understanding Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. This thickening occurs most commonly between the third and fourth toes and results in pain, tingling, burning sensations, or numbness in the ball of the foot. Often, patients describe the sensation as feeling like they are standing on a pebble in their shoe.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Morton's Neuroma is not well-understood but is believed to be related to irritation, pressure, or injury to one of the nerves that lead to the toes. Factors that may increase your risk include:

• High-impact athletic activities that place repetitive stress on the foot
• Foot deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet
• High heels or tight shoes that place pressure on the toes
• History of injury to the region.

Diagnosing Morton's Neuroma

Diagnosis begins with a thorough examination, including a review of your medical history and a physical exam of the foot. I may perform tests, such as pressing on your foot to feel for a mass or clicking sound, which might indicate the presence of a neuroma. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs are recommended to rule out other causes of foot pain.

Treatment Options: From Conservative to Advanced Interventions

The treatment for Morton's Neuroma focuses on relieving the pressure and inflammation causing the pain. Here are the options we explore:

• Custom Orthotics: Specially designed shoe inserts can help reduce pressure on the neuroma.
• Shoe Modifications: Shoes with a wider toe box can alleviate compression.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the foot muscles can be beneficial.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections can decrease pain and swelling.

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, we may consider surgical options. Surgery involves either removing the nerve or releasing the tissue surrounding the nerve. Both approaches aim to alleviate pain while minimizing the impact on foot function.

Why Trust Your Care to Us?

In managing Morton's Neuroma, my priority is to provide effective, individualized care that allows my patients to return to their daily activities without pain. With a focus on the latest research and minimally invasive techniques, I am dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for those in my care.

Understanding the complexities of foot conditions like Morton's Neuroma is the first step toward recovery. If you're struggling with foot pain, remember that effective and innovative treatments are within reach. Dr. Kaveh Panahi and the team at Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons are ready to help you take that first step towards healthy, comfortable feet. Contact us today for your evaluation at 623-439-2200 or book an appointment online. We are here to help.